Retiring in Texas is on a lot of folk's radar these days. You have a choice of climates to make. You need to decide whether you want to be near a big city. Which sports team do you like, etc?

Texas was our home for 21 years. It was good to us and has provided a nice retirement. Before you decide on retiring in Texas, ask yourself a few questions.

First, what kind of weather do you like? From the Dallas area to the Panhandle, you will get some snow in the winter. If you have to have warm weather take a look at Corpus Christi and Brownsville. The hill country around Austin is a nice compromise it is cooler than say Houston in the summer.

Second, how close do you need to be to a big city? If you travel by plane a lot proximity to the airport is something to consider. If you need the opera, ballet or theatre a big city will fill those needs. If you are looking for more peace and quiet, Texas has many small towns... brother Willie sang about Luckenbach, as being his slice of heaven.

Third, are you a sports fan? Football is a religion in Texas. As such you may want to be close to your favorite pro, America's team?, or college town, Hook em Horns! We spent many a pleasant evening in the Astrodome when Alvin, Texas' own, Nolan Ryan, took the mound for the Astros.

For those of you blessed enough to think about the effect of income tax...Texas is one of seven states that have no state income tax.

Retiring in Texas, come on down and grab your piece of the Lone Star State. Enjoy.